Unquestionably, Chelsea’s range of international and genuine dishes has expanded more than ever before, though the SW3 postcode has historically grappled with a scarcity of authentic Mexican cuisine. For too long, patrons have had to settle for offerings resembling something one might assemble along a cafeteria line, complete with rubber-like cheese and pale imitations of ‘guacamole’.
Thankfully, Chelsea now boasts a stellar Mexican tavern, aptly named Mezcalito. True to its moniker, the establishment places equal emphasis on savoring an array of Mezcal and Tequila as it does on indulging in Mexican gastronomy. Co-founder Oliver Castilla-Tristan is a Tequila and Mezcal connoisseur, recognized as one of the preeminent authorities in the UK on both spirits, following an eight-year tenure as the London Prestige Account Manager for Proximo Spirits before he embarked on establishing his own venture in 2022. Upon entering, one might be momentarily mistaken for discovering a lively club in Cabo as opposed to Chelsea, as my companion Clem and I contemplated on an energetic Wednesday night in May. After a short pause, a genial doorkeeper confirms our names and escorts us through a bustling bar, into an intimate dining area adorned with sombreros and gentle fairy lights, leading to a quaint garden patio decorated with bamboo and rattan barrel-style tables. The environment pulsates with the energy of chic youths, with a soundtrack that’s vibrant yet non-invasive.
A selection of concoctions is requested from the comprehensive beverage menu, including a Jalisco for my spouse and an Acapulco for myself. The Jalisco, presented in a vibrantly hand-painted terracotta mug, boasts a crisp and lemony zest without any bitterness. My Acapulco, Mezcalito’s unique spin on the traditional pina colada, serves up a balance of lush fruitiness and richness – the initial taste instantly whisking me off to the radiant beaches of Tulum.
The food offerings are succinct yet inviting – conveniently divided into definitive segments. From the Botanas & Antijitos, we select esquite (a vivacious street corn salad dressed with chipotle mayo, zesty chili powder, and parmesan), nachos, and guacamole enhanced with chicharron to begin our meal. From the Platos Fuertes, we opt for Enchiladas, and the Tacos section contributes Camaron – succulent king prawns ignited with a melange of chipotle, garlic and seasonings. To share, we indulge in savory veggie tacos cradled in tender, pillowy tortillas accentuated by the tang and muted sweetness of salsa verde, alongside a naturally cheesy quesadilla from the Quesadilla grouping. Though sated, we persist and on our server’s advice, elect to delight in churros con dulche de leche from the Postres category. The choice proves wise as the churros arrive tantalizingly warm, crisp, and sinfully irresistible.
Here, Tequila is treasured rather than merely employed as a conduit for fiery revelry synonymous with pulsating dance locales. The catalog of this spirit, as well as its more refined and en vogue cousin Mezcal, is vast and astutely categorized by type and origin, offering connoisseurs a straightforward route to their beloved varietals.
Mezcalito intertwines culinary art and celebration: simply knock back a few Mezcals, request an enormous serving of nachos, and immerse yourself in the illusion of a lively spring holiday along the balmy, citrus-perfumed coasts of Mexico surrounded by close companions.
Every week, Mezcalito Chelsea curates a feast of events, with Taco Tuesdays featuring a special price of £8 throughout the evening on tacos alongside 2-for-1 frozen margaritas. On Wednesdays, guests are enlivened by a live Mariachi ensemble, and every Saturday starting at 8pm, a DJ set animates the scene.
On weekends from 12pm – 4:30pm, visitors can revel in Mezcalito’s Tulum Bottomless Brunch, which provides 2 courses along with 90 minutes of unlimited frozen margaritas, prosecco, and corona for £55. The brunch menu includes delectable choices like Taquitos Dorados, Equite or Hosomaki to start, followed by mains including Tacos or Quesadillas, capped off with crisp Churros or Chocoflan Impossible Cake for dessert. Patrons may also opt for Whispering Angel for an added £10.
Additionally, Mezcalito Chelsea offers a cigar catalog featuring a variety of cigars imported from Cuba via Hunters and Frankau, the UK’s distinguished purveyor and distributor of Habanos, bearing the English Market Selection seal indicative of superior Cuban tobacco quality.
Image Source: MezcalitoChelsea.com
